Grand Chief Stewart Phillip: “Luckily hate did not prevail”
THE Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs (UBCIC) on Monday congratulated the B.C. NDP on its unprecedented election victory and expressed optimism for a continued era of true collaboration.
The UBCIC said: “It is the first time the B.C. NDP has been elected for a third consecutive term, and they did so with a hard-fought 47-seat majority. This victory marks an important step toward deeper reconciliation, respect for Indigenous rights, and a shared future built on partnership and commitment to address the climate emergency.”
Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, UBCIC President, said: “I am absolutely relieved and overjoyed that we are facing four more years of working with the David Eby government. This election and the past week have been dark and ugly due to the open hate, racism and misinformation peddled by John Rustad’s B.C. Conservative Party. I was gravely concerned for the future of my grandchildren, that we might see MLAs who hold extremely dangerous and regressive views about Indigenous peoples become Ministers of this province. Luckily hate did not prevail. David Eby and the B.C. NDP represent equity, tolerance and advancement of human rights- First Nations and all British Columbians deserve this.”
Chief Don Tom, UBCIC Vice-President, said: “We expect this government to continue to honour its commitments, and we will hold them accountable to these promises. Reconciliation must be about more than symbolism—it must be about real change that empowers our people, protects our lands, and ensures our cultures continue to flourish. We call for swift, meaningful action to uphold the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act. We also anticipate serious and real action on the climate emergency. These commitments are critical to advancing reconciliation, land rights, and self-determination for First Nations in British Columbia.”
“We want to take this opportunity to remind the David Eby government that the path to true reconciliation begins by prioritizing Indigenous women and girls- honouring their voices, protecting their rights, and restoring the balance of justice that has long been denied,” said Chief Marilyn Slett, UBCIC Secretary-Treasurer. “This election result is a moment of hope for First Nations and Indigenous peoples across British Columbia. The B.C. NDP has made important progress and committed to reconciliation and justice, and this victory will allow us to continue the hard work we have started- and we can’t wait.”
